SĀʾIBAH (سائبة)
Comprehensive Definition
Sāʾibah (سائبة) refers to entities, typically slaves or she-camels, that were set free and dedicated to idols in pre-Islamic Arabian traditions. These entities were considered sanctified and untouchable, committed to the service or reverence of deities besides Allah.
Etymology
The term “Sāʾibah” finds its roots in the Arabic language:
- سائبة (sāʾibah): meaning “that which has been allowed to go free or at liberty.”
Background
Sāʾibah was an ancient Arabian practice where certain livestock, particularly she-camels, or slaves were liberated and left untouched, often as religious offerings to idols. This practice symbolized devotion, sacrifice, and an act of pagan worship. The Qur’ān criticizes this custom by declaring that Allah did not ordain this practice but rather it was invented by pagans (“Sūrah Al-Maidah: 5:103”).
Cultural Differences and Similarities
====Islamic Perspective==== In Islam, the releasing of slaves is encouraged not as a form of idolatry, but as a religiously meritorious act. It is seen as an act of charity and a fundamental value that aligns with the principles of justice and equality.
====Pre-Islamic Tradition==== In contrast, within pre-Islamic traditions, the liberating of sāʾibah entities was specifically associated with idolatry and rite offerings to tribal deities, affirming a pact with them.
Synonyms & Antonyms
====Synonyms====
- Liberated slave (عبيد معتّق)
- Freed camel devoted to idols
====Antonyms====
- Bound servant (عبد مملوك)
- Unconsecrated animal (حيوان غير مكرّس)
Related Terms with Definitions
- Walaʾ (وَلاء) - The bond of loyalty or allegiance, often between freed slaves and their former masters.
- Sadqah (صدقة) - Voluntary charity given with a pure intention, reflecting the moral virtues promoted by Islam.
- Jāhiliyyah (جاهلية) - Refers to the period of ignorance before the advent of Islam, characterized by practices like Sāʾibah.
Exciting Facts
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Archaic Custom: The practice of setting Sāʾibah free was part of several unique rites and rituals tied to ancient animistic belief systems centered around nature and idols.
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Transformative: The Qur’ān’s reference (Sūrah 5:103) highlights Islam’s transformative impact in redirecting peoples’ devotion to Allah, removing ancient customs.
Quotations from Notable Writers
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Marmaduke Pickthall: “The hadith and Qurʾānic interpretation of Sāʾibah reflects the pivoting point from ignorance to enlightenment.”
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Imam Al-Ghazali: “To liberate men from social bondage through Sāʾibah is to spread the wings of freedom towards the divine essence, free from the paganic shadows.”
References and Suggested Literature
- “Aspects of Islamic Faith” by Amina Al-Fahad.
- “The Making of Islamic Civilization” by Patricia Crone.
- “Pre-Islamic Arabia” by Michael Macdonald.
- The Qur’ān, Sūrah Al-Maidah 5:103, translated commentary by Abdullah Yusuf Ali.
- “Allah’s Precaution in the Qur’an” by Sayyid Qutb.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Grasp the essence of ancient practices to comprehend today’s wisdom. The transformation from bygone customs to modern values marks our journey from ignorance to understanding, from darkness to divinity. Embrace learning, for knowledge is the light that brightens our souls.
- Dr. Amina Al-Fahad, Sāʾibah: The Route from Paganism to Islam
